Patient care

Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

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Any cancer that affects the lymphatic system is called as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma can occur at any age and there are many types of this cancer. The following paragraphs will discuss more facts about this large group of cancers affecting the lymphocytes.

Definition of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, also called as NHL, or lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphocytes. These lymphocytes are a part of the immune system. Lymphocytes are present in the lymph nodes and lymphoid tissues such as the spleen and bone marrow. NHL is the fifth most common cancer. There are different types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Some are fast growing cancers (aggressive) and few are slow growing (indolent) cancers.

What is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is the body’s defense system against infectious agents and diseases. It comprises of the lymph vessels that help in the transportation of a fluid called the lymph. There are tiny lymph nodes along the lymph vessels that help filter the lymph as it passes through. These lymph nodes are present in the neck, armpit, abdomen and groin region.

Lymphocytes or white blood cells are present within the lymph nodes that fight any infection within the body. There are two types of lymph nodes in the body: B-cell lymphocytes and T-cell lymphocytes. The lymphatic tissue takes care of any infection. It is present in the spleen, bone marrow, tonsils and the thymus. Some of it is also found around the eye, stomach lining, thyroid gland as well as the testicles. Lastly, the bone marrow is present within the bones where all blood cells as well as lymphocytes are produced.

How Does Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Develop?

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma develops like any other cancer. Cells that are lymphocytes develop some kind of mutation and start dividing out of control. When the number of abnormal cells is more than the normal cells, it forms a lump called tumor. Lymphoma usually develops in the lymphatic system, but can occur in any part of the body like small bowel, skin, thyroid, tonsils, testicles, etc. As lymphocytes travel within the lymph vessels, they can spread cancer in any other lymph node far away from the site of origin. They can also enter the blood and spread the cancer to bone marrow, liver, lungs, spleen, etc.

Types of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

There are several types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma of which some of the common types are mentioned below:

Lymphoma of the stomach or bowel can lead to indigestion, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss

Lymphoma of the bone marrow leads to tiredness, recurrent infections and unexplained and easy bruising and bleeding

Other general symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma includes:

Excessive sweating at night

Fever that comes and goes

Itchy skin

Lethargy

Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

The doctor will conduct a physical examination and take the medical history as well as ask about the symptoms one is experiencing. The doctor will conduct certain tests and procedures to diagnose non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Blood and urine tests

CT scan, MRI and PET scan

Lymph node biopsy

Bone marrow biopsy

Treatment for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is based on the site, stage and type of lymphoma. In case of the indolent/slow growing cancer, the doctor may schedule checkups every few months. Only if the cancer continues to advance, a treatment plan will be chalked out.

In other cases, the management of NHL is carried out as follows:

Use of biological drugs that like Rituximab that helps the immune system target B-cells and reduce the number of cancerous B-cells. As the body can reproduce B-cells, it will soon be free of cancerous B-cells to some extent

Use of radioimmunotherapy drugs that pass radiation directly to the cells

Cancer changes the life of the affected person as well as their loved ones. One should develop a strong support system around them to remain positive and overcome cancer. After the treatment, live a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy, exercise and follow any instructions given by your doctor.